Talking at a felicitation function organised by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, Shivlal said, "I pray to God that all the bad period that we are only reading about in the media will be over as soon as possible and you will take over from me."

"Today, the cricketing fraternity is grateful to Mr Srinivasan as no former Presidents of the BCCI had the guts or willingness to look after them to pay one-time benefit, which Srinivasan has done not only to Test cricketers but to Ranji Trophy cricketers also," the former off-spinner was in a mood to lavish praise on the newly appointed ICC chairman. (Related: BCCI Not Sitting on Pots of Money, Says Srinivasan)

"Many Presidents have come and gone after serving their term, today because of Mr Srinivasan's benevolence that many cricketers, who have suffered in their lifetime particularly the Ranji Trophy cricketers have struggled in getting pittance of money. Today, they are leading good life because of Srinivasan's guidance and benevolence," said the interim president.